Recently, award-winning San Francisco-based filmmaker Banker White spoke with the Foundation Center about when filmmakers should begin applying to foundations for funding, and how to get funding for a project at different stages. Here's his reply:

"Finding support during the early stages is best...it is true that to be competitive in development it helps to have some footage that represents your project. AND when applying for production funds you are often expected to have strong sequences already shot and edited. BUT don’t let this discourage you. Applying for grant funding should be approached like an important part of the creative process. My strategy is to apply for foundation funding early and often. I really believe working to articulate your thoughts and communicate creative vision is a part of the process of making the film. It helps push the project forward whether or not your project gets support. Meeting deadlines also helps create a different type of needed structure.

Also, do your research: apply to grants at the appropriate stage and for projects that match what the funder is looking for. Most grantmakers have thorough FAQs and guidelines on their websites."